KUALA LUMPUR, 13 March 2026 — The Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy welcomes the implementation of the School in Hospital initiative at Hospital Seberang Jaya, the first of its kind in Penang. This is a meaningful and compassionate step forward in ensuring that children receiving treatment in hospital are not left behind in their education.

Children who are hospitalised, especially for long or repeated periods due to chronic conditions or prolonged illness, already face disruption, uncertainty, and emotional stress. Ensuring that they can continue learning while warded is not only an educational intervention but also an important form of psychosocial support. It helps preserve normalcy, motivation, confidence, and connection to their future at a time when illness can often be isolating and overwhelming.

“The School in Hospital initiative is a practical example of inclusive, humane policy in action. It recognises that illness should not deprive a child of continuity in learning, hope, and a sense of normal life. We commend all those involved in making this possible at Hospital Seberang Jaya,” said Azrul Mohd Khalib, Chief Executive Officer of the Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy.

“The School in Hospital initiative reflects an important principle which can sometimes be difficult to realise in difficult circumstances: that every child has the right to learn, regardless of their health circumstances. Education should not stop at the hospital door. By bringing structured and flexible learning into healthcare settings, this initiative affirms the dignity of young patients and supports their overall well-being and recovery.”

“Hospital Seberang Jaya’s implementation of this programme demonstrates the value of close collaboration between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health. It is encouraging to see a model that flexibly adapts the national curriculum to the child’s condition and capabilities, while also creating a supportive, child-friendly learning environment within the hospital.”

The Galen Centre believes that this initiative should be sustained, strengthened, and expanded. As Malaysia continues to improve the quality and inclusiveness of its healthcare and education systems, programmes such as this should be seen as essential, not optional. They represent the kind of whole-of-society support that children and families need during difficult times.

We also hope that the experience in Penang will encourage further investment in child-centred care, including the integration of education, emotional support, rehabilitation, and family-friendly services into hospitals across the country.

No child should have to choose between treatment and learning. The School in Hospital initiative helps ensure that they do not have to.